Become an adventurer on a quest to explore St. Augustine's role in the shaping of America throughout 450 years. Examine the city's rich tapestry through lectures by local experts and historians, live music, professional costumed re-enactments and expert-led field trips. Observe architecture of the Spanish, British and Venetian Renaissance periods. Journey from the pre-European era to the conquerors and the present. Immerse yourself in our historical treasure!

Highlights

• Examine the site where the Spanish landed, the Historic District, Castillo de San Marcos, Ponce de Leon Hall (formerly the Ponce de Leon Hotel) on the campus of Flagler College and listed as a National Historic Landmark. • Meet Henry Flagler in a costumed presentation and listen as this railroad magnate shares with you his life and legacy of grand hotels, the railroads and the impact of Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture on St. Augustine.• View “Gilded Age” works of Tiffany at selected historic buildings.

Activity Particulars

There is moderate amount of walking, stairs and standing at historic sites and museums during field trips. Elevators are provided at several sites. Narrow streets and trolley design make this program more challenging for those with limited mobility.

If you are looking to celebrate Road Scholar's 40th Anniversary in St. Augustine, please check out program #21668.

Date Specific Information

11-30-2014

Cruise the waters of Historic St. Augustine aboard the Victory III. This narrated tour by the Captain provides an incomparable way to view St.Augustine’s historic landmarks and natural sites of interest.

4-12-2015

This year St. Augustine will be celebrating its 450th anniversary as the oldest continually occupied European settlement in the U.S. Watch for special event updates.
Also, cruise the waters of Historic St. Augustine aboard the Victory III. This narrated tour by the Captain provides an incomparable way to view St.Augustine’s historic landmarks and natural sites of interest.

9-6-2015, 9-13-2015

Special 450th anniversary program of this city first established in 1565. St. Augustine’s 450th Commission has special events planned throughout the week. Watch for updates as we add a variety of activities.

Coordinated by Eckerd College.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine is America’s oldest city. With a colorful past of 16th-century conquistadors and pirates, St. Augustine today is a thriving, multicultural community rich in historic sites and architecture, quaint residences and gardens, and a thriving cultural arts scene.

These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.

Gerald Brody

Gerald Brody, a performing pianist since early childhood, has resided in St. Augustine with his wife Susan since 1993. He was acclaimed locally for his extremely popular radio program, "The Joy of Opera", which aired for 15 years. He now shares his rare collection with his Road Scholar participants and performs at the piano. Gerry is regarded as a regional expert in the history of sound recording, and is the author of "Opera: You Never Knew You Loved It!"

George Strock

George Strock received his bachelor’s in history from the University of Wisconsin and master’s in history from DePaul University. For 30 years, he worked for the National Park Service as a historian and interpreter at the Castillo de San Marcos, Gettysburg, Cape Hatteras, Harper’s Ferry and other sites. Since retiring from the Park Service in 1995, he has served as consultant and exhibit planner for various historic sites and leads visitors at the Oldest House and the Pena-Peck House.

Kenneth Barrett

A native Floridian, Ken Barrett graduated from St. Joseph Academy and received degrees from Santa Fe Community College and the University of Florida. While associated with the National Park Service, Ken photographed parks in this region and organized their archives. A freelance photographer, Ken's work has appeared in a variety of publications, including, "The Houses of St. Augustine" and "Florida's Colonial Architectural Heritage." Ken is also a frequent exhibitor at Florida art shows.

Eddie Joyce Geyer

Eddie Joyce Geyer, a native Floridian, was the former director of Visitor Services for the St. Augustine Historical Society for 18 years. A popular presenter and panelist, Eddie has appeared before such organizations as the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, the National Association of Travel Writers, the American Association for State and Local History, and the Florida Museum Association. Eddie has enjoyed her Road Scholar experience as a hostess and presenter in the Southeast.

Margaret Kaler

Margaret Kaler is an actor, storyteller and local history interpreter with the Old Florida Museum. She works with the What’s In a Name Players, performing Shakespeare and improvisational pieces. She often works with Limelight Theatre and is producer of “Comedy Histrios,” a production of authentic 16th century entertainment. Margaret also portrays famous women including Harriet Beecher Stowe and Emily Dickenson, and recently attended two state political conventions as Susan B. Anthony.

Robert Gill

Robert Gill is one of the most sought after and respected professional actors in Florida, with credits in St. Augustine dating back to 1981. One of the premier Shakespearean actors in the state, he was recently seen as Prospero in "The Tempest", as well as Henry Higgins in "Pygmalion". This year saw the debut of his new one-man show, Eric Bogosian's "Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll", played to sold-out audiences, before taking it on the road. He continues to bring his Mark Twain, Henry Flagler, and murder mystery dinner theatre shows to the Raintree Restaurant in St. Augustine year round.

Bob Patterson

Bob Patterson is — among many other things — a folklorist, musician, author, photographer, historian and conservationist with a genuine heart for the natural wonders of Florida. His passion for the state’s untamed people and places is truly contagious. Bob’s songs and stories illustrate the “real” Florida through colorful characters, native history and humor. Bob is a member of the Florida Storytelling Association and a co-founder of the Gamble Rogers Folk Festival.

Direct beach access is available via the gazebo over the dunes. Rental of chairs and umbrellas from the gazebo are available in season. Outdoor unheated pool. Health and fitness center on site. Self-serve laundry.

Smoking allowed:

No

Elevators available:

Yes

Additional nights prior:

Call for prices Extra night hotel stays before or after the program are limited and are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Terms are subject to change without notification. Call ahead to make reservations and confirm cost.

Check in time:

4:00 PM

Additional nights after:

Call for prices Extra night hotel stays before or after the program are limited and are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Terms are subject to change without notification. Call ahead to make reservations and confirm cost.

Ask for Heather and tell her you are with the Eckerd College Road Scholar program.

NE Florida Regional Airport

From Airport

Service:

Per Person/One Way:

call for pricesPrices are subject to change.

Travel Time:

less than 1/2 hour

Non-stop flights are now available from Trenton/Mercer County Airport to Northeast Florida Regional Airport in St. Augustine and from Dulles Airport to Northeast Florida Regional Airport in St. Augustine. visit www.flyfrontier.com or call: 800-432-1359. The airport is just a few miles from the downtown St. Augustine area.

Driving
Directions

1. NORTH: Direct: Jacksonville International Airport

I-95 to Exit #311 to SR 207 (N) to SR 312 (E) [3.7 mi.] over the Intracoastal to A1A (middle lane—look for “Welcome to St. Augustine Beach” sign) [3.6 mi.]. Proceed beachside on A1A (S) to Holiday Isle on your left [2.5 mi.].

The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Daily Schedule

Day 1:

Arrival/Orientation(Sunday, November 30)

Afternoon:

Program registration from 3:00-5:00 pm in the Pelican Room. Holiday Isle check in at 4:00 pm. NOTE: SUNDAY LUNCH IS NOT AVAILABLE AT THE HOLIDAY ISLE – PLAN TO HAVE LUNCH BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND SCHEDULED TIMES COULD CHANGE DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES.

The Oldest City: Before & After the Europeans / Sightseeing train ride through the Historic District / Guided Field Trip to the Historic Fort Castillo de San Marcos /Vernacular Architecture of St. Augustine(Monday, December 1)

Breakfast:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Morning:

Spend the morning exploring, through discussion and power point presentation, the history of St. Augustine before and after the Europeans. Presentation covers and ends with the War between the States. After a short break, view a DVD that will help enhance your trip to the Castillo de San Marcos.

Flagler and the Gilded Age / Field Trip to Memorial Presbyterian Church and the former Ponce de Leon Hotel / Evening of Musical Entertainment.(Tuesday, December 2)

Breakfast:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Morning:

Spend the morning with Henry M. Flagler, railroad tycoon and hotelier. Learn about his life and impact he had on the state of Florida and the city of St. Augustine. Enjoy a first-person presentation of Henry Flagler by a respected actor. After a short break, view a DVD (optional) about Whitehall: The Flagler Museum. Learn all about this historic monument's impact on the area.

Lunch:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Afternoon:

Tour the Memorial Presbyterian Church founded in 1889 - an elegant example of Venetian Renaissance architecture. Then visit the magnificent Ponce de Leon Hotel (now Flagler College) and see over $300 million of Tiffany glass. Founded in 1888, the hotel is a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture and is listed on the National Historic Registry. Railroad magnate Henry M. Flagler commissioned architects Carrera and Hastings to design these outstanding examples of America's Gilded Age. Later, the two young architects designed the New York Public Library and the US Senate Office Building.

Dinner:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Evening:

Evening of Musical Entertainment by folklorist and singer Bob Patterson. This will be followed by the viewing of a DVD - "Romantic St. Augustine." (Optional)

Costumed Presentation/Lecture/Afternoon in the Historic District /Evening Lecture(Wednesday, December 3)

Breakfast:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Morning:

Begin the morning being entertained and enlightened by a local costumed actress portraying a Pulitzer Prize winning historical figure. Then, take a break. This is followed by a lecture from St. Augustine writer/publisher and playwright, James Bullock entitled "Many Flags, Many Colors."

Lunch:

Lunch on your own in the historic district.

Afternoon:

Free time on your own in the Historic District. Lunch on your own. This is an opportunity to spend time on your own to visit some additional sites or revisit areas seen earlier in the week. Transportation to and from the Historic District is provided.

Dinner:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Evening:

See St. Augustine come alive through a power point presentation and commentary by our professional photographer and former college professor, Ken Barrett.

Historical Harmonies of the 1st Coast / Time on Your Own & Scenic Cruise / Evening Entertainment(Thursday, December 4)

Breakfast:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Morning:

Spend the morning studying the Music of the First Coast through discussion, live musical presentations and vintage recordings which will enhance your appreciation of the topic.

Lunch:

Bus departs for the Historic District for a lunch provided at a local favorite restaurant.

Afternoon:

Meet at the City Marina for a Scenic Cruise (seasonal) or the Lightner Museum for a tour. There will be time after the cruise or tour to visit some additional sites. Transportation to and from the Historic District is provided.

Closing Program and DVD (St. Augustine Lighthouses)(Friday, December 5)

Breakfast:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle

Morning:

Costumed presentation by local instructor followed by "St. Augustine Lighthouse." DVD -optional

Lunch:

Dining Room at the Holiday Isle. The program concludes with lunch today. Thank you for choosing Eckerd College and the Holiday Isle Oceanfront Resort for your Road Scholar experience. Have a safe journey to your next destination.

Meals
Included:

Breakfast, Lunch

Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List

Black Society in Spanish Florida

Author: Landers, Jane

Description: The first extensive study of the African American community under colonial Spanish rule, "Black Society in Spanish Florida" provides a vital counterweight to the better-known dynamics of the Anglo slave South. Jane Landers draws on a wealth of untapped primary sources, opening a new vista on the black experience in America and enriching our understanding of the powerful links between race relations and cultural custom. Blacks under Spanish rule in Florida lived not in cotton rows or tobacco patches but in a more complex and international world that linked the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and a powerful and diverse Indian hinterland. Here the Spanish Crown afforded sanctuary to runaway slaves, making the territory a prime destination for blacks fleeing Anglo plantations, while Castilian law (grounded in Roman law) provided many avenues out of slavery, which it deemed an unnatural condition. European-African unions were common and accepted in Florida, with families of African descent developing important community connections through marriage, concubinage, and godparent choices. Assisted by the corporate nature of Spanish society, Spain's medieval tradition of integration and assimilation, and the almost constant threat to Spanish sovereignty in Florida, multiple generations of Africans leveraged linguistic, military, diplomatic, and artisanal skills into citizenship and property rights. In this remote Spanish outpost, where they could become homesteaders, property owners, and entrepreneurs, blacks enjoyed more legal and social protection than they would again until almost two hundred years of Anglo history had passed.

Fort Mose: Colonial America's Black Fortress of Freedom

Author: Deagan, Kathleen A. and Darcie A. Macmahon

Description: This book tells the story of Fort Mose and the people who lived there. It challenges the notion of the American black colonial experience as only that of slavery, offering instead a richer and more balanced view of the black experience in the Spanish colonies from the arrival of Columbus to the American Revolution.

Henry Flagler - Builder of Florida

Author: Sammons, Sandra Wallus

Description: Follow the rise of Henry Flagler as he changes Florida's east coast with his hotels and his Florida East Coast Railway

Henry Flagler - Visionary of the Gilded Age

Author: Martin, Sidney Walter

Description: Henry Flagler, Visionary of the Gilded Age is the fascinating story of a turn-of-the-century business career. Flagler left home at the age of 14 to seek his fortune and made two. He formed a partnership with John D. Rockerfeller soon after oil was discovered. When asked if the Standard Oil Company was the result of his thinking, Rockerfeller said: "I wish I had the brains to think of it. It was Henry M Flagler." Flagler began his retirement in Florida. He believed in the east coast and created hotels, railroads, communities, model farms and more from Jacksonville to Key West including major development efforts in St. Augustine, Palm Beach and Miami.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings: A Descriptive Bibliography

Author: Tarr, Rodger L.

Mullet on the Beach: The Minorcans of FLorida, 1768-1788

Author: Griffin, Patricia C.

Description: In the history of St. Augustine, the story of the Minorcans, who still today exert tremendous political and social influence, rivals the drama of the Jamestown or Plymouth settlements. Patricia C. Griffin describes their first twenty years in the New World, including the hardship of their arrival in British East Florida in 1768, their starvation and suffering on an indigo plantation, and their revolt and flight to sanctuary in St. Augustine.
There, survivors of this devastating experience pieced back together their Mediterranean heritage. In time, they became farmers, craftsmen, shopkeepers, mariners, and fishermen. Mullet on the beach, their freedom cry, signaled the emigrants release from plantation captivity. As the Floridas reverted to Spanish control and were later acquired by the United States, the Minorcans became the core population of St. Augustine, settling into a quarter next to the city gate and south of the old Spanish fort which is now known as the restored area.
Griffin brings alive this remarkable colonial venture through her use of documentary sources, archaeological evidence, and topographical and climatic data. Students of Florida history and the Spanish borderlands, specialists in migration studies, ethnohistorians, and the general reader will value this solidly researched study of a folk communitys struggle and triumph in the New World.

The Houses of St. Augustine

Author: Nolan, David, Barrett, Ken and Fitzpatrick, Jean Ellen

Description: Richly illustrated with 15 original watercolors and 180 color photographs to show representative styles and forms. Each chapter covers a separate era in St. Augustine's history and discusses the city's distinctive character during that era as well as how architectural styles evolved. Offers a history of attempts at historic preservation and suggests future remedies.

The Negro on the American Frontier

Author: Porter, Kenneth W.

The Oldest City: St. Augustine's Saga of Survival

Author: Waterbury, Jean Parker

Description: Four cultures over more than four centuries contribute to the history of St. Augustine

You can't find a better value than Road Scholar.

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing all-inclusive educational programs at great value. From lectures to gratuities to field trips to accommodations - the tuition you pay up front is all that you pay.

Specifically, this program includes:

5 nights accommodations

14 meals:
5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Expert-led lectures: 8

Expert-led lectures

Led by one or more of our world-class instructors, typically in a classroom setting, lectures come in the form of presentations, discussions or workshops and offer expert insight into your area of study.

Field trips: 4

Field trips

The world is your classroom, as you're on location with an instructor to pursue your educational theme firsthand.

Performances: 6

Performances

A performance can range from a night at the opera to a visit from a local performer at your hotel.

Plus these special experiences...

Examine the site where the Spanish landed, the Historic District, Castillo de San Marcos, and Flagler College, an historic landmark hotel.